Pakistani expert: Azerbaijan can easily become a regional leader in green energy
Baku, January 12, Parvana Gafarova, AZERTAC
“Azerbaijan’s renewable energy targets and resource estimates reflect that Azerbaijan’s national energy strategy is very well-grounded. It also seems that these strategies and the vision of Azerbaijan align closely with the global energy transition trends,” said Khalid Taimur Akram, the renowned Pakistani expert in international relations, as he commented on Azerbaijan’s green energy development plans in his interview with AZERTAC.
According to him, first of all, Azerbaijan’s target for 2020 to raise the share of renewable energy sources (RES) to 30% of total installed electricity generation capacity by 2030 is ambitious and realistic also. “These are not just symbolic words. When we look at the country’s strong political commitment, the work done in energy sector, growing international partnerships, and the improving regulatory frameworks, everything is a reminder and a reflection of Azerbaijan’s commitment and seriousness towards the goals it set in 2020,” the expert noted.
Khalid Taimur Akram described the estimated technical potential of renewable energy, 135 GW onshore and 157 GW offshore, as particularly impressive by regional and global standards. “These high figures highlight Azerbaijan’s exceptional natural advantages, especially in wind and solar energy. The Caspian Sea’s offshore wind potential alone positions Azerbaijan as a future leader in clean energy not only for domestic use but also for regional electricity exports. Although technical potential cannot be translated into installed capacity immediately or within blink of eye but yes it surely provides a strong foundation for long term planning and it will also help win investors’ confidence,” he mentioned.
“The designation of Karabakh, East Zangezur, and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, as “green energy zones” is a sound and a very important decision. Since the estimated renewable potential in Karabakh and East Zangezur is 10 GW while in Nakhchivan, the estimated potential is 5 GW, it means that these regions can become flagships of sustainable reconstruction and modern energy development. Integrating renewable energy into post-conflict recovery creates an opportunity to build smart, efficient, and low-carbon infrastructure from the ground up, serving as a model for green development,” he underlined.
“From a policy and investment perspective, Azerbaijan has already taken important steps to turn these ambitions into reality. Recently signed agreements with leading international energy companies, improvements in energy legislation, and the introduction of competitive mechanisms, all strengthen the investment climate. Technological barriers are also decreasing with the passage of time, as global costs for solar and wind technologies continue to fall and grid integration solutions become more advanced,” the expert emphasized.
“Now the question is what are those factors upon which the successful implementation of these targets depends? Several factors can be considered in this regard such as continued policy stability, timely development of grid infrastructure, access to international financing, and strong institutional coordination. Capacity building and local workforce development will also play an important role,” he said.
“In essence, Azerbaijan’s renewable energy targets and resource estimates are highly credible and they are achievable also. With steadfast commitment and effective execution, Azerbaijan can easily become a regional leader in green energy and a reliable contributor to global climate and energy transition goals,” the Pakistani expert concluded.
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